Jean-Alain Boumsong is hoping to impress at Lyon following stints in England and Italy that saw him become the butt of much criticism.The France centre-back completed his drawn-out switch from Juventus to Les Gones on Saturday, when he signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the French champions.

Tipped for great things upon leaving Auxerre for Rangers in 2004, the 28-year-old has endured a difficult few years during which his career has stalled.

He was solid in his half a season with Rangers but was widely criticised in an error-riddled year and a half at Newcastle.

He moved to Juventus in August 2006 and struggled at first, although he did improve and helped Didier Deschamps' team earn promotion from Serie B.

Under new coach Claudio Ranieri, Boumsong lost his place in the starting line-up and admitted he was delighted to hear of Lyon's interest.

He feels he has been unfairly targeted over the past few years, saying: "I regret how relentless they (the critics) have been.

"Criticism makes you grow but when it isn't objective, it can destroy you. That hasn't been the case with me but it's a shame that it is often difficult and unjustified.

"During these moments, you can't ask yourself too many questions. Otherwise you are on a spiral to self-destruction.

"I played well last season but when the team had a bad match, I was heavily criticised. Perhaps you have to live through these moments to be able to progress. A footballer's career is like a man's life."

He will slot into a Lyon defence that is shorn of a host of centre-backs because of injury, with the likes of Cris, Cleber Anderson and Patrick Muller all sidelined.

When everyone is fit, Boumsong will face a battle to be selected but he admitted he jumped at the chance to join Les Gones.

"For me, Lyon are the biggest French club," he added. "I didn't hesitate for one moment.

"I want to rediscover the pleasure of playing again. I am coming to experience the joy of success, although I am not saying that life will be easier than at Juventus.

"Lyon are a big club and at a big club, there is competition. Whatever position you play in, if you rest on your laurels, you can pay for it."

Boumsong, who has cost Lyon 3million euros, should make his debut for his new club in the Coupe de France last-32 clash against Croix de Savoie next weekend.

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